How to avoid the summer slide with English practice tips

Summer is the perfect time to relax, but that doesn’t mean your English skills need to take a holiday too. Without regular practice, it’s easy to lose fluency, confidence, and vocabulary over the summer months. This is known as the “summer slide”, and it affects learners of all ages.

The good news? Keeping your English fresh doesn’t have to feel like school. With just a few minutes a day and the right tools, you can stay sharp and even improve while still enjoying your summer break.

1. Listen while you chill: podcasts & audiobooks

Whether you’re at the beach, on a hike, or just relaxing at home, audio content is an easy win. Choose English-language podcasts on topics you enjoy — travel, sports, comedy, or even true crime. Try:

• The English We Speak (BBC Learning English – Intermediate level)
• Luke’s English Podcast
• TED Talks Daily (advanced level)
• Audiobooks on apps like Audible or Storytel

Tip: Don’t worry about understanding every word. Just keep listening. It’s great for your ears and your vocabulary.

2. Play your way to better English

Language apps and games are perfect for keeping your brain active without feeling like work. Try:

• Duolingo or Wordwall for daily practice
• LyricsTraining to learn English through music
• Online quizzes and crosswords in English

Even just changing your phone language to English for the summer can make a difference!

3. Watch with purpose

Streaming a series or film in English? That counts! Add English subtitles (or turn them off if you’re ready for a challenge). You’ll pick up natural phrases, pronunciation, and cultural references.

Need ideas?

• Stranger Things – fun slang and clear speech
• The Crown – British accents and formal language
• Friends – everyday American English and jokes

4. Keep a summer journal (in English!)

Write a few sentences each day about what you did, saw, or felt. Don’t stress about grammar, just keep writing. It’s a great habit that helps with vocabulary and sentence structure.

You can even use apps like Grammarly to check and learn from your mistakes.

5. Join an intensive course

If you’re aiming for a qualification before the new school year, then a summer course is the way to go.

At Trilingo Idiomas, we offer intensive courses to help you achieve the next CEFR level. Our qualified teachers help you achieve your goals, with Cambridge exams at the end of course so you can start the new term with the level you want.

However you choose to keep your English current, have a fantastic summer!

La entrada Avoid the Summer Slide: Fun English Practice Tips se publicó primero en Trilingo Idiomas.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a company looking to assess staff, Linguaskill offers a practical and efficient way to certify English language skills. This exam format is only available for CEFR levels B1 upwards.

Trilingo Idiomas is the only academy in the Vélez-Málaga area where you can sit the exam in-house at dates arranged by the academy. This means a more flexible and timely way for you to get your certification.

What is Linguaskill?

Linguaskill is an online English test developed by Cambridge Assessment English. It uses AI technology to assess reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills. Results are available within 48 hours, and the test adapts to your level, offering a precise evaluation for each candidate.

There are two test options:

• Linguaskill General – suitable for everyday communication in social, educational, or workplace contexts.
• Linguaskill Business – focused on professional language used in business settings like reports, presentations, and emails.

How is it different from other Cambridge English exams?

Unlike traditional Cambridge English exams such as B2 First (FCE) or C1 Advanced (CAE), Linguaskill is modular and adaptive:

• Adaptive testing means the difficulty adjusts as you answer, giving a more personalised and accurate result.
• Modular format allows you to take just the skills you need: Listening & Reading, Writing, or Speaking.
• Quick turnaround: You receive results in just 48 hours, compared to weeks for other exams.
• No fixed exam dates: You can take it whenever you’re ready.
• Aligned to CEFR levels (B1–C1+), making results easy to understand and share with schools, employers, or institutions.

The format of the Linguaskill exams

There are four modules as per other Cambridge English exams: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking.

As the tests are adaptive, the length and number of questions for each exam can vary.

Reading

Time – 35-45 minutes (approximately). The maximum length of an exam is 59 minutes.

Number of questions – There isn’t a fixed number of questions, with the test adapting to previous answers submitted by the candidate.

Types of questions – There are multiple task types, and candidates will see a selection of the following:

• One-question multiple choice
  Candidates read a short text such as a notice, label, text message, or email, then choose the sentence or phrase that best matches its meaning. There are three answer options.
• One-question multiple-choice gap-fill
  Candidates complete a sentence by selecting the correct word to fill a gap. Each gap has three or four possible answers.
• Five-question multiple-choice gap-fill
  Candidates read a short text and choose the correct word or phrase for five gaps. Each gap has three or four answer options.
• Five-question open gap-fill
  Candidates read a short text with five missing words and write the correct word for each gap without answer options.
• Five-question multiple choice
  Candidates read a longer text and answer five multiple-choice questions, which follow the order of the text.
• Two-question multiple choice
  Candidates read a text and answer two multiple-choice questions. The questions appear in the same order as the information in the text.
• Missing paragraph text completion
  Candidates complete a text by inserting five missing paragraphs. They choose from a list of six possible paragraphs.
• Missing sentence text completion
  Candidates complete a text by inserting five missing sentences. They select from eight possible options.
• Multiple text matching
  Candidates read four short texts and match each one to a prompt or question by identifying relevant information across all texts.

Writing

Time – 45 minutes

Task – Linguaskill candidates write an essay of at least 250 words.

            Linguaskill Business candidates write a report of at least 250 words.

Listening

Time – 35-45 minutes (approximately). The maximum length of an exam is 59 minutes.

Number of questions – There isn’t a fixed number of questions, with the test adapting to previous answers submitted by the candidate.

Types of questions – There are multiple task types, and candidates will see a selection of the following:

• One-question multiple choice
  Candidates listen to a short audio recording and answer one multiple-choice question. There are three possible answers.
• Five-question multiple choice
  Candidates listen to a longer recording and answer five multiple-choice questions. The questions follow the order of the recording.
• Two-question multiple choice
  Candidates listen to a recording and answer two multiple-choice questions. The questions follow the sequence of the information heard.
• Sentence completion
  Candidates listen to a recording with one speaker and complete five sentences by typing no more than three words in each gap.
• One-task multiple matching
  Candidates listen to five short monologues from different speakers. For each monologue, they answer one question by choosing from eight options.
• Two-task multiple matching
  Candidates listen to three monologues from three different speakers. They answer two questions per monologue, selecting from five options for each question.

Speaking

Time – 16 minutes

Number of questions – 5 sections

Types of questions – The test begins with three simple warm-up questions. These are not assessed and are designed to help candidates feel comfortable.

• Part 1 – Presentation
  Candidates are given a topic with three bullet points and speak about it for one minute.
• Part 2.1 – Summary
  Candidates listen to an audio extract from a meeting or tutorial containing four key points. They then have 40 seconds to summarise the key points for a colleague or classmate who could not attend.
• Part 2.2 – Discussion questions
  Candidates respond to three follow-up questions from the same colleague or classmate, giving their opinions on the topic discussed in Part 2.1.
• Part 3 – Recommendation
  Candidates receive a text message outlining a friend’s or colleague’s requirements. They read additional information and make a recommendation based on those needs.
• Part 4 – Argument presentation and evaluation
  Candidates are given a statement and must present arguments both for and against it. They should reach a conclusion and justify their final opinion with supporting reasons.

Advice for Linguaskill candidates

To perform at your best in the Linguaskill exam, Cambridge offers the following advice:

• Familiarise yourself with the test format. Knowing what to expect in each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) helps reduce anxiety and improve focus.
• Practise with official materials. Trilingo provides access to sample tests and practice tools so you can get comfortable with the timing and question styles.
• Listen and read carefully. Pay close attention to all instructions and questions before answering.
• Use your English regularly. Engage with English-language media—podcasts, news articles, and videos—to build your confidence and fluency.
• Review your grammar and vocabulary. Strong foundational skills improve your writing and speaking performance.
• Time management is key. Don’t spend too long on one question—move on and return later if needed.

Our team at Trilingo will guide you through every step of preparation with targeted support and test-taking strategies.

Watch a video from Cambridge English on why you should choose Linguaskill.

Why Choose Trilingo Idiomas?

Trilingo Idiomas is proud to be the only centre in the Vélez-Málaga area offering flexible exam dates.   

Our experienced team supports students of all ages, from school pupils looking to stand out, to adults preparing for career changes, and businesses assessing English for recruitment or training.

We offer:

• Personalised preparation courses
• On-site testing in a calm and supportive environment
• Expert advice on which version of the test suits your goals

Whether you’re applying to university, updating your CV, or hiring internationally, Linguaskill at Trilingo Idiomas is the fast-track to certified English.

Contact us today to find out more or book your test.

La entrada Linguaskill: Fast English Certification at Trilingo se publicó primero en Trilingo Idiomas.

If you’re aiming for the B2 First in English (formerly known as FCE) from Cambridge, congratulations! You’re working towards a globally recognised qualification that proves your English is strong enough to live, work, or study in an English-speaking environment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what each part involves and share practical tips from our teachers to help you succeed.

At Trilingo Idiomas, we’ve helped students pass this exam with confidence.

What is the B2 First?

The B2 First qualification is designed to test your ability to use every day written and spoken English at an upper-intermediate level. It’s accepted by universities, employers, and governments around the world.

For more information on the different levels, read our blog: Which Cambridge English Exam is right for you?

The exam tests four key skills: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. In total, the exam takes around 3 ½ hours to complete.

1. Reading and Use of English (1 hour 15 minutes)

This section combines grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. It’s divided into 7 parts with 52 questions.

What’s tested:

• Understanding texts from newspapers, websites, books, and magazines
• Grammar and vocabulary accuracy
• Word formation
• Sentence transformation

Trilingo Tips:

> Practise time management: Don’t get stuck on a single question.

> Learn common collocations and phrasal verbs.

> Read articles daily to improve speed and comprehension.

> Watch this breakdown from Sandra explaining how to tackle Part 1 effectively.
embed  video – https://www.facebook.com/reel/1215827167210354

2. Writing (1 hour 20 minutes)

There are two tasks:

• Part 1: Compulsory essay
• Part 2: Choice between an article, email, letter, report, or review

What’s tested:

• Clarity and organisation
• Range of vocabulary and grammar
• Task achievement

Trilingo Tips:

> Learn the structure for each writing type.

> Use a variety of linking words (e.g. however, therefore, in addition).

> Practise using language functions such as expressing opinions, persuading, justifying and evaluating.

> Always leave time to check your work.

3. Listening (about 40 minutes)

There are four parts to the listening section, including multiple-choice questions, gap-fills, and matching speakers to opinions.

What’s tested:

• Understanding main ideas and details
• Recognising opinions, tone, and purpose
• Part 1 – is multiple choice and has eight short extracts. You need to listen for expressions of feeling, attitude, opinion, purpose, function, agreement and details and gist.
• Part 2 – this is a monologue and you have to complete sentences on the question paper with information you hear on the recording
• Part 3 – there are 5 themed monolgues of around 30 secnds each. You need to select 5 correct options from a list of 8.
• Part 4 – this is another multiple choice. You listen to a conversation between tow or more speakers and choice the correct answers,

Trilingo Tips:

> Listen to podcasts, news, and YouTube videos in English.

> Use subtitles at first, then try without them.

> Practise predicting answers before listening.

> Read the questions carefully during the pauses.

4. Speaking (14 minutes per pair of candidates)

This is the one section of the exam where you work with another candidate. Two examiners ask the two candidates a series of questions. They also give you material on which you need to have a conversation. It includes personal questions, a collaborative task, and a discussion.

What’s tested:

• Fluency, pronunciation, and interaction
• Expressing opinions and justifying choices
• Using a range of grammar and vocabulary
• Part 1 – this is between the examiner and the candidate. The examiner asks you questions about your interests, studies, careers which you answer.
• Part 2 – The examiner shows you two pictures and asks you to talk about them. You have to speak for one minute. Then, the examiner asks the other candidate to comment on your photos for about 30 seconds. This is then repeated with the other candidate receiving two different photos.
• Part 3 – In part 3, which lasts three minutes,  you have a conversation with the other candidate. The examiner provides you with material and a task. You and the other candidate have to make a decision.
• Part 4 – There is further discussion with the other candidate, guided by the examiner. This lasts around 4 minutes during which you need to demonstrate your ability to express and justify opinions, agree and disagree.

Trilingo Tips:

> Practise speaking with a friend/partner or teacher.

> Don’t memorise speeches, be natural and flexible.

> React and respond to your partner’s ideas.

> Use hesitation fillers (e.g. “Well, let me think…”) to buy time.

General Tips for Exam Day

> Get familiar with the format. At Trilingo Idiomas we give you two timed mock exams to practice before deciding if you’re ready to take the exam.

> Read all instructions carefully.

> Don’t panic if you make a mistake, keep going.

> Arrive early and bring the required ID and materials.

Join a Trilingo B2 First Course

Our teachers are qualified and know exactly what examiners are looking for. In our classes, you’ll:

• Practise each part of the exam regularly
• Get feedback on your writing and speaking
• Take mock exams under real conditions
• Learn vocabulary and grammar in context

 Want to book a level test? Contact us today!

La entrada How to Pass the Cambridge English B2 Exam se publicó primero en Trilingo Idiomas.

Learning English shouldn’t stop when you leave the classroom. Today, there are dozens of free online tools for English learners that can help you practise vocabulary, grammar, listening and pronunciation, from your phone or laptop.

At Trilingo Idiomas, we believe the best progress happens when in-person classes are combined with smart use of online resources. Below are some of our favourite websites, apps and podcasts. They are especially useful for learners preparing for Cambridge exams like A2 Key, B1 Preliminary, B2 First, and C1 Advanced.

Apps that make practice easy

1. BBC Learning English
A classic. This app includes short videos, grammar tips, pronunciation practice, and vocabulary for different levels. Try the “English at Work” and “News Review” sections, they’re great for real-world context and Cambridge listening tasks.
Get the app

2. Quizlet
Good for vocabulary, though bear in mind it is American English. You can search for ready-made sets designed for Cambridge levels or make your own. Use the flashcards, games and test modes for regular review between classes.
Check out the app

3. Duolingo
While Duolingo isn’t exam-focused, it’s great for beginners or students who want to build a daily habit. Use it as a warm-up before starting homework or revising class material.
Grab the Duolingo app

Websites worth bookmarking

1. Cambridge English: Learning English
Website
This is a must for anyone taking a Cambridge exam. You’ll find sample papers, vocabulary lists and interactive activities for each level.

2. British Council: Learn English
Website
Full of grammar lessons, videos, and games. Try their “Skills” section for listening, reading, writing and speaking practice. Many of their resources are designed to support students preparing for formal exams. You can choose levels, Business English and there’s also a specific Teens section.

3. Lyrics Training
Website
Love music? This site turns listening into a game. Fill in the missing lyrics as the song plays. Great for ear training and learning informal language.

Podcasts for on-the-go learning

1. The English We Speak (BBC)
Short weekly episodes (about 3 minutes) that teach idioms and expressions used in everyday English; great for B1-B2 students.
Find it here

2. Luke’s English Podcast
Luke is a qualified teacher and comedian. His episodes are longer but perfect for advanced learners preparing for B2 First or C1 Advanced.
Check in with Luke

3. 6 Minute English (BBC)
Exactly what it says, short, clear discussions on interesting topics, with transcripts and vocabulary lists. A brilliant way to build listening skills.
Just 6 minutes

How to combine these tools with your classes

To get the most from these free resources:

• Set a routine. Use apps like Quizlet or Duolingo for 5–10 minutes a day before or after class.
• Follow your teacher’s advice. At Trilingo, our teachers can recommend which podcasts or websites match your current level and goals.
• Use official practice materials weekly. Websites like Cambridge English offer authentic questions and tasks to help you prepare.
• Mix active and passive learning. Watch a video with subtitles, then try to summarise it. Listen to a podcast and repeat phrases out loud.

Final Tip

Free online tools for English learners are fantastic, but the key to progress is consistent practice with feedback. Use these resources to support your learning, not replace your classes. And if you’re preparing for a Cambridge exam, always check that the material matches your target level.

Ready to improve your English with the right tools and expert guidance?
Talk to your Trilingo teacher about how to personalise your learning routine or contact us to find out more about our courses.

La entrada The Best free online tools for learning English se publicó primero en Trilingo Idiomas.

The good news? You’re not alone. These mistakes are normal, and honestly, they’re part of the fun (and sometimes frustration) of learning a new language. As teachers, we’ve heard them all, and the key is not to be afraid of making them.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common errors Spanish speakers make when learning English, and why they’re nothing to stress about.

1. The V and B blur

Let’s start with a classic: v and b. In Spanish, these sounds are almost identical. But in English, van and ban don’t mean the same thing (unless your van is banned, but that’s another story).
Tip: Lightly touch your bottom lip to your top teeth for v, and press your lips together for b. Practice with words like vote and boat.

2. Adding an “eh” before s-words

Ever said esnake or eschool? You’re not alone. Spanish doesn’t allow many words to start with just “s” + consonant, so the instinct is to add a vowel.
Tip: Slow down and listen to how native speakers say words like street or Spain. Repeating short phrases can help break the habit.

3. Mixing Up “I” and “E” sounds

Words like bit and beat, or live and leave, can cause confusion. Spanish has different vowel sounds, so it’s totally normal to struggle with the English i (as in kind, find, crime) vs. e (as in pen, men).
Tip: Minimal pairs are your friends. Try practising word sets like ship/sheep, bin/bean, fit/feet.

4. False friends

Ah, the trap of actual, sensible, and assist. They look just like their Spanish cousins but have grown up in completely different households.

• Actual in English means real, not current.
• Sensible means reasonable, not sensitive.
• Assist is to help, not to attend.

Tip: Keep a running list of false friends and check meanings in context. You’ll get the hang of them in no time.

5. Adjective-Noun word order

In English, we say a red car, not a car red. In Spanish, adjectives often come after the noun, so it’s natural to get this mixed up.
Tip: Try building noun phrases out loud: a delicious cake, a noisy neighbour, a boring film. Make it fun and descriptive!

6. Questions and auxiliary verbs

“You like pizza?” might work in a casual setting, but it’s not quite standard English.
In English, we need that helping verb: Do you like pizza?
And in the negative: I don’t want to go (not I no want).
Tip: Get familiar with do, does, did, and don’t/didn’t. They’re small words that make a big difference.

7. Present Simple vs. Continuous Confusion

“I’m having a car.” Whoops! English only uses the continuous form (-ing) for actions in progress or temporary situations, not for things you have.
Tip: Use the present simple for facts and routines: I have a car; She lives in Valencia; We like sushi.

8. Tense confusion (especially Present Perfect)

This one’s a beast (not Mr. Beast!). Spanish uses the present perfect differently, which leads to sentences like:
I have seen her yesterday.
In English, we’d say: I saw her yesterday. The present perfect is for unspecified time, like I’ve seen that film before.
Tip: Ask yourself: When did it happen? If there’s a clear time, use the past simple.

9. Prepositions: the sneaky little words

Married with someone? Nope, it’s married to.
Excited about or excited to? They mean different things, so making sure you have the correction preposition makes a difference to your sentence.

In this case, excited about = a feeling of excitement about something specific – an idea, or event. Example: I’m excited about my trip to Cambridge.

Excited to = excitement linked to anticipation of doing something. Example: They’re excited to start at university.

Prepositions are one of the trickiest parts of English because they don’t always follow logic or match the Spanish equivalent.
Tip: Learn prepositions in chunks: interested in, good at, depend on. Don’t try to translate them literally.

10. Overusing or dropping subjects

In Spanish, the verb tells you who the subject is, so you can often drop it: Voy al cine.
In English, though, we need that little I, you, he, it, etc., otherwise the sentence feels incomplete: Is raining should be It is raining.
Tip: Always include a subject, even if it feels unnecessary.

Mistakes are a sign you’re learning

Making mistakes is how you get better. If you never mess up, you’re probably not pushing yourself hard enough. Every mispronounced beach (we’ve all been there), every confusing sentence, every “Oops!” moment is a step forward.

And if you ever feel stuck, remember: English speakers love it when someone makes the effort to speak their language. Fluency takes time, but communication starts the moment you try.

If you’re Spanish speakers wanting to improve your English, then give us a call. We’d love to help you on your journey to fluency!

La entrada 10 Common mistakes Spanish speakers make in English se publicó primero en Trilingo Idiomas.

If you’re learning English and thinking about taking a Cambridge English exam, you’re in great hands. At Trilingo Idiomas, we prepare students of all ages and levels for official Cambridge qualifications. As a certified Cambridge Exam Preparation Centre, we know how important it is to choose the right exam for your goals.

Whether you’re learning for work, study, travel, or personal satisfaction, Cambridge English exams give you a clear, recognised qualification that proves your level and opens doors worldwide.

But where should you start?

Cambridge English Exams at a Glance

Cambridge English exams are based on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) an internationally recognised scale that runs from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient). Each exam focuses on real-life communication and tests reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.

Here’s a quick look at the main Cambridge exams:

Understanding how Cambridge exams correspond to CEFR Levels

Each Cambridge English exam corresponds to a CEFR level. Here’s what that really means in everyday terms.

General and Education

A1 – Young Learners

Exam: A1 Movers

A child can understand basic instructions and take part in simple conversations, and write notes.
Great for: Young Learners – everyone gets a certificate, it’s all about celebrating achievements.

A2 – Elementary

Exam: A2 Key
You can understand and use basic phrases, ask and answer questions about personal topics, and interact in simple situations.
Great for: Teenagers, adult beginners, or students finishing basic English courses.

B1 – Intermediate

Exam: B1 Preliminary
You can deal with most everyday situations, write simple texts, and express opinions on familiar topics.
Great for: Students looking to travel, work part-time abroad, or move on to more advanced study.

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Exam: B2 First
You can understand the main ideas of complex texts, communicate fluently with native speakers, and write clear, detailed content.
Great for: University applications, Erasmus or study-abroad programmes, and professional roles requiring English.

C1 – Advanced

Exam: C1 Advanced (CAE)
You can handle academic or professional-level English, write essays, follow lectures, and take part in high-level discussions.
Great for: Applying to English-speaking universities or jobs where advanced communication is essential.

C2 – Proficiency

Exam: C2 Proficiency (CPE)
You understand everything you read or hear, can summarise and debate complex ideas, negotiate and persuade effectively at senior management level, and express yourself with precision and subtlety.
Great for: Academic research, publishing, law, or leadership roles in international companies.

For Business and Professional Use

If you’re aiming to use English in your professional life, Cambridge offers Business English certificates that cater specifically to the demands of the workplace.

B1 Business Preliminary: For those who need to use English in everyday business settings, such as customer service or basic office tasks.

B2 Business Vantage: For professionals aiming to advance in their careers, with a focus on clear communication in meetings, emails, and negotiations.

C1 Business Higher: For those who need a higher level of proficiency to operate in a senior role, such as leadership positions or international business dealings.
Great for: professionals who need to demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively in English within the business world.

How to Choose the Right Exam for Your Goals

At Trilingo Idiomas, we always recommend choosing your exam based on your current level and what you want to achieve.

For example, if your current level is A1/A2 and you want to achieve B1, we would advise taking an intensive A2 before starting a B1 course. There is nothing worse than floundering in a class above your level, we want you to feel comfortable and confident in class.

Studying in English?

If you’re planning to study at a university abroad, most require at least B2 First. Top universities may ask for C1 Advanced or even C2 Proficiency.

Working in English?

For many jobs in tourism, sales, or admin, B1 Preliminary or B2 First may be enough. For corporate roles or international business, aim for C1 Advanced or the Business certificates at B1, B1 and C1.

Travelling or moving abroad?

You’ll find life much easier with at least B1 level, especially if you need to arrange housing, open bank accounts, or attend appointments in English.

Just improving your English?

If you’re learning for personal growth, there’s no pressure! Start with a goal that suits your level and build confidence step by step.

How We Can Help at Trilingo Idiomas

We don’t just prepare you; we know the exams. As an official Cambridge Centre, we offer:

Personalised level assessments
Mock exams and official exam sessions
Classes designed for teens, adults & professionals

Because we’re based in Spain, we also understand the challenges Spanish speakers face when learning English, and how to overcome them.

Ready to Find Your Level?

Visit us at Trilingo Idiomas for a free level test and let’s map out the best path for your English success. Whether you want your child to get a headstart with a Young Learners course, you’re starting with A2 or aiming for C2, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to book your assessment and start your Cambridge journey with confidence.

La entrada Which Cambridge English Exam Is Right for You? se publicó primero en Trilingo Idiomas.